Kraków: Zakopane Horse ride & Thermal Baths Day Trip

Kraków: Zakopane Horse Ride & Thermal Baths Day Trip Review

Embarking on a day trip from Kraków to Zakopane offers a wonderful mix of mountain scenery, cultural insights, and relaxation. This particular tour, priced at around $161 per person, promises a well-rounded experience that combines outdoor activities, local traditions, and wellness in one 11-hour package.

What we love about this tour is its authentic feel—you’re not just passing through scenic spots but engaging with local craftsmen, tasting regional specialties, and enjoying mountain views that are truly breathtaking. The flexible itinerary allows for spontaneity, especially at the thermal baths, which are the perfect way to unwind after a day on your feet.

A possible consideration is the horse rental fee of 250 Polish Zloty, which is an additional cost if you want to participate in the horseback riding. For those who prefer a fully inclusive experience, this extra fee might be a deterrent.

This trip is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation—perfect if you’re interested in experiencing Zakopane beyond just a quick visit. Active travelers, cheese lovers, and those in need of a good soak will find plenty to enjoy here.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic local culture: Interact with a highlander sculptor and enjoy traditional cheese tasting.
• Scenic outdoor adventure: Experience a horseback ride with stunning mountain views, suitable for beginners.
• Relaxation: Unwind at Chochołowskie Thermal Baths, with indoor and outdoor pools and mountain vistas.
• Flexible itinerary: Free time in Zakopane’s center for shopping or exploring on your own.
• Extra costs: Horse rental is additional, so budget accordingly.
• Winter option: In snowy months, a magical sleigh ride replaces the horse ride for a winter wonderland experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transport

The day starts with hotel pickup in Kraków, which means you avoid the hassle of organizing transport. The small group size—limited to eight participants—ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide. The drive to Chochołów Village takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead.

Exploring Chochołów Village

Your first stop is this charming mountain village, famous for its well-preserved wooden houses that serve as a living museum of highlander architecture. Walking through Chochołów feels like stepping back in time—many of the houses are centuries old, and the village itself still retains its traditional character. The guide will point out key features, such as intricately carved woodwork and the unique roof styles that stand up to heavy snowfall.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting a Highland Sculptor

A highlight for many is the visit to a local highlander’s home, where you meet a Góral artist skilled in wood-carving. This intimate encounter offers insights into the craft—many sculptures depict local legends, animals, or religious symbols—and you get to see firsthand how traditional tools are used. Several reviews mention how engaging and informative the guide is during these stops, adding depth to the experience.

Horseback Riding with Mountain Views

After a brief lesson on horseback riding, you’ll set out on a scenic trail through the mountains. No previous riding experience is needed, making this activity suitable for most. The horses are well-behaved, and your guide will ensure safety and comfort. Travelers report that the views of the Tatra Mountains during the ride are spectacular, providing photo-worthy moments that you’ll cherish long after the day ends.

Tasting Oscypek Cheese in a Shepherd’s Hut

No visit to Zakopane is complete without sampling oscypek, a traditional smoked sheep’s cheese. You’ll visit a bacówka, a shepherd’s hut, where cheese is made and sold directly from the producers. Watching the cheese being smoked and tasting it fresh—that’s what makes this experience authentic. Some reviews note that the cheese is deliciously smoky and slightly salty, perfectly paired with local bread or fruit.

Free Time in Zakopane

After the morning’s adventures, you’ll have free time in Zakopane’s town center—Krupówki Street. It’s lively with shops, cafes, and street performers, giving you the chance to browse local crafts, buy souvenirs, or grab a quick snack. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with mountain scenery serving as a stunning backdrop. Many travelers appreciate this flexible part of the day, allowing for personal exploration.

Relaxing at Chocholowskie Thermal Baths

The tour culminates at the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths, the largest thermal spa in the region. Here, you can unwind in indoor and outdoor pools filled with mineral-rich waters, enjoy saunas, or simply soak up the mountain views from the outdoor pools. The reviews highlight how refreshing and peaceful the baths are, especially after a day of outdoor activity. Bring your swimwear and a towel for a truly rejuvenating experience.

Practical Details and Tips

What’s Included?

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to Chochołów Village, meeting with a highlander sculptor, cheese tasting, free time in Zakopane, and access to the thermal baths. A bottled water is provided, which is handy given the full day of activities.

Extra Costs

The main extra expense is the horse rental—250 Zloty per person—which is paid directly at the stud farm. If you aren’t interested in riding, you can still enjoy the views from the trails and focus on the cultural and relaxation aspects.

What to Bring?

Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around Chochołów and Zakopane. Bring a swimsuit and towel for the thermal baths, a camera for those mountain views, and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if visiting outside of summer. In winter, expect snow, so warm layers and waterproofs are advised.

Group Size and Guide

Limited to just 8 participants, the small group size fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere. The live guide speaks English, ensuring clear communication and interesting commentary throughout the day.

Timing and Flexibility

Start times vary depending on availability, so check your booking for specifics. The entire tour lasts about 11 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. The schedule allows enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, especially given the optional free time in Zakopane.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who want a taste of mountain life and outdoor adventure without needing prior experience. It appeals to those curious about local crafts and culture, cheese aficionados, and anyone in need of relaxation after exploring Kraków. It’s also great for small groups who enjoy a personalized experience and scenic views.

While not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, the tour offers a balanced mix of gentle activity and leisure, making it accessible for most travelers seeking authenticity and comfort in one day.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains, blending cultural insights, outdoor fun, and relaxing thermal baths. The horseback ride, in particular, stands out as a memorable highlight—offering stunning views and a gentle introduction to mountain riding.

The visit to Chochołów Village and the highlander sculptor adds a personal touch, making you feel connected to local traditions. Meanwhile, the thermal baths are the perfect reward after a day full of activity, especially with the mountain vistas enhancing the experience.

For travelers wanting an authentic, value-packed day with lots of photo opportunities and cultural interaction, this trip hits the mark. It balances adventure with relaxation, making it a solid choice for those wanting to see Zakopane beyond the usual tourist spots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Kraków are included, making transportation hassle-free.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?
Not at all. The tour offers a short riding lesson, and the trail is suitable for beginners.

How much does the horse rental cost?
The horse rental fee is 250 Polish Zloty per person, payable on-site.

Can I skip the horseback ride?
If you prefer not to ride, you can enjoy the scenic views from the trail or opt to relax at the thermal baths instead.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and if visiting in winter, warm layers.

Is the thermal bath access included?
Yes, entry to the Chochołowskie Thermal Baths is included in the tour price.

How long is the drive from Kraków?
Approximately one hour each way, providing a comfortable journey and some downtime before the activities start.

What’s the maximum group size?
Small groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with children over the age of 6 who can enjoy the outdoor activities and thermal baths.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this day trip offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, culture, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Kraków itinerary. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, authentic local flavors, or simply a way to unwind in nature, this tour delivers on all fronts.

You can check if your dates are available here: